East Idaho Braces for Powerful Weekend Windstorm

Forecasters warn of gusts up to 75 mph and hazardous blowing dust conditions.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 9:06pm

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The National Weather Service in Pocatello has issued a wind advisory and blowing dust warning for east Idaho this weekend, with forecasts calling for west winds of 35-45 mph and gusts up to 65 mph, potentially reaching 75 mph in some areas. The storm is expected to affect a much larger area than the powerful windstorm that hit the Idaho Falls region on Thursday, causing isolated damage and power outages.

Why it matters

Strong winds and blowing dust can create dangerous driving conditions, damage property, and pose health risks for those with respiratory issues. This storm has the potential to be more widespread and damaging than the previous event, underscoring the need for residents to prepare and heed safety warnings.

The details

According to meteorologist Audra Moore, the upcoming storm will bring southwest winds of 25-35 mph on Friday, increasing to 35-45 mph west winds on Saturday with gusts up to 65 mph. Forecasters warn that gusts could even reach 75 mph in some areas. A blowing dust warning has also been issued for the Upper Snake River Plain from noon to 9 pm on Saturday, which could severely limit visibility and make travel hazardous, especially for high-profile vehicles.

  • On Friday, southwest winds of 25-35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph are expected under a wind advisory.
  • On Saturday, west winds are forecast to increase to 35-45 mph, with gusts up to 65 mph, and potentially reaching 75 mph in some areas.
  • The blowing dust warning is in effect from noon to 9 pm on Saturday.

The players

Audra Moore

A meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Pocatello.

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What they’re saying

“Thursday's extreme high winds were mostly confined to the Idaho Falls area. But on Saturday, everyone will get in on the action.”

— Audra Moore, Meteorologist

“The last blowing dust warning in the area was issued in April 2020.”

— Audra Moore, Meteorologist

What’s next

Residents are encouraged to secure or bring inside loose outdoor items before the winds arrive, and drivers should exercise caution and consider delaying travel if possible. The National Weather Service in Pocatello advises monitoring forecasts for updates as the storm approaches.

The takeaway

This powerful weekend windstorm is expected to be more widespread and potentially more damaging than the previous event, underscoring the importance of preparedness and safety precautions for east Idaho residents. The combination of high winds and blowing dust poses significant risks, and officials are urging the public to heed weather warnings and take appropriate actions to protect themselves and their property.